Text: Proverbs 10:4

Introduction

This marks the beginning of a new season and the last stretch of the year. Many people have earnestly prayed for things to take a better turn in their lives, yet breakthroughs remain elusive. The word “diligent” carries profound significance; it signifies persistence, hard work, and the commitment required to attain our goals. Diligence holds utmost importance in all aspects of life, from personal relationships to careers and hobbies. It distinguishes successful individuals from those struggling to achieve their aspirations.

Proverbs 10:4, an enduring verse from the Book of Proverbs in the Bible, imparts a profound lesson on the significance of diligence. It states, “Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth.” This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment in realizing our dreams. In this article, we will delve deeper into the concept of diligence, exploring its significance and offering practical insights on how it can pave the path to success as we approach the year’s end.

The Breakdown of the Writing

1) The Value of Consistent Effort

Diligence involves the unwavering and sincere application of effort towards a specific task or goal. There’s an African proverb that says, “Anyone who tastes the honey extracted from inside the rock will not mind the edge of the axe.” Let’s recall the story of the blind Bartimaeus in Mark 10:46-52; even amidst distractions, obstacles, and opposition, he persisted and cried out for help when he sensed Jesus passing by. His unyielding effort resulted in Jesus attending to him and restoring his sight. Similarly, in 1 Samuel 1:1-20, Hannah demonstrated relentless determination in her prayers to God, despite being mocked and misunderstood by the priest. Her diligence eventually led to her celebration and blessings.

Being diligent means refusing to give up, even when faced with obstacles or setbacks. It means maintaining focus on your goals and consistently working towards progress. It’s natural to feel discouraged when things don’t go as planned, but diligence requires us to keep pushing forward, even when our motivation wanes.

2) Diligence Leads to Wealth

The latter part of Proverbs 10:4 declares, “But diligent hands bring wealth.” While wealth often refers to financial prosperity, it can also encompass richness in experience, knowledge, and relationships. Diligence, when applied across various facets of life, can lead to success and abundance. Jacob’s story in Genesis 29:15-20 exemplifies how diligence can lead to wealth. He toiled for seven years to marry Rachel, and when faced with deception, he worked another seven years to attain his goal. Jacob’s diligence and hard work ultimately brought him wealth and success, making him a prosperous shepherd with a large family, abundant flocks, and numerous servants.

To be diligent in our pursuits can lead us toward a more prosperous and fulfilling future. In business, diligence can be the defining factor between success and failure. Many entrepreneurs face initial setbacks, but those who remain truly committed learn from their mistakes and persevere until they achieve success.

Conclusion

In our personal lives, diligence is essential in our relationships, health, and spiritual growth to yield positive results. Your diligence will drive you to seek a deeper connection with God through Jesus Christ and His plans for you. As Paul stated in Philippians 3:10, the desire to know Jesus and the power of His resurrection is the heartbeat of a diligent person. I encourage you to come to Jesus, make Him the Lord of your life, and allow Him to guide your focus and lead you to a successful path.

Let’s Pray

1) Lord Jesus, I thank You for Your love and grace upon me. Thank You for provision, safety, and abundant blessings.

2) My God and Father, I ask for forgiveness and mercy for any wrong steps I may have taken in my aspirations and ambitions.

3) Lord, I ask for Your guidance to sustain me on life’s journey. Help me to embrace diligence in my work as I await the manifestation of Your unstoppable blessings and favor. Amen.

John Aderogba, for ROPMI.